The electric vehicle (EV) market is heating up with new entrants aiming to make their mark against established favorites. The GWM Ora 03, previously known as the Ora Funky Cat, is one such newcomer that’s looking to carve out its niche. Positioned to compete with models like the BYD Dolphin and MG4, the Ora 03 is setting itself apart with a focus on luxury, safety, and a distinctive design that aims to appeal to a broad audience.
GWM ORA 03 Review
A Closer Look at the GWM Ora 03
While the Ora 03 comes with a heftier price tag than the MG, it justifies this with a promise of more luxury and comprehensive safety features. It’s a strategic move to attract buyers who are willing to pay a little extra for added comfort and peace of mind.
GWM ORA 03 interior
The interior quality of the Ora 03, similar to its rival the MG4, leaves room for improvement. However, it compensates with a suite of convenience features. The five-door configuration offers practicality, although it’s somewhat limited by a smaller boot space, which might not suit everyone’s needs.
Driving Experience:
On the road, the Ora 03 might not be the most thrilling drive—its ride can be fidgety, and the steering lacks engagement. Nonetheless, it excels in safety, an aspect underscored by strong Euro NCAP ratings, making it a reassuring choice for families.
Design and Aesthetics:
Despite shedding its more whimsical original name, the Ora 03 still sports a design that’s likely to attract those who appreciate its ‘cute’ aesthetics. This could be a significant draw for younger buyers or those looking for a vehicle with personality.
Market Position and Brand Evolution
GWM Ora, a sub-brand of Great Wall Motors, may not yet be a household name outside of China, but it’s rapidly gaining recognition. Originating from a company known for its robust pick-up trucks and SUVs, Ora’s exclusive focus on fully electric cars positions it as an innovative player in the green automotive space.
GWM ORA 03 Price
With the introduction of new trim levels and battery options, the Ora 03 is more accessible than ever. The entry-level Pure+ starts at just under £32,000, maintaining its initial price point, while the top-tier Pro+ model is available for around £35,000. These options provide potential buyers with flexibility in terms of features and pricing, aligning with GWM Ora’s strategy to cater to a range of consumer needs and budgets.
Battery Capacity and Range
The Ora 03 offers two main variants that differ significantly in battery size and driving range. The entry-level Pure+ trim features a 48kWh battery (45.4kWh usable), providing a range of up to 193 miles. On the higher end, the Pro+ trim is equipped with a 63kWh battery (59.3kWh usable), which extends the range up to 261 miles. While these figures are decent, they fall short of what some competitors, like the MG4, can achieve, which might be a consideration for those prioritizing longer driving range.
Standard Equipment and Features
Despite its range shortcomings, the Ora 03 compensates with a generous suite of standard features. The base model Pure+ is well-equipped with 18-inch alloys, electric front seats, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera, rear parking sensors, and wireless phone charging. Upgrading to the Pro+ trim adds luxury touches such as heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, front parking sensors, an auto park system, and an electric tailgate, enhancing comfort and convenience.
Future Variants and Sportier Options
For those looking for a bit more flair, a sporty GT variant of the Ora 03 is rumored to be in the pipeline, though details are sparse at this stage. This upcoming variant might appeal to those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.
Which is the best Ora 03 to buy?
If you’re considering the GWM Ora 03, the Pure+ trim represents a balanced choice, offering a solid array of features at a competitive price point, despite being pricier than some rivals. It stands as a practical option for city commuters and those who prioritize a rich feature set over extended range.
How efficient is the GWM Ora 03 in the real world?
Real-world efficiency can vary widely. Preliminary tests suggest that in colder conditions, the Ora 03’s efficiency might lag behind competitors, with the Pure+ trim achieving about 2.8mi/kWh compared to the MG4’s 3.1mi/kWh. This aspect could be a deciding factor for efficiency-focused buyers.
Is the GWM Ora 03 reliable?
As a new entrant in the UK market, the long-term reliability of the Ora 03 remains to be seen. However, the vehicle comes with a reassuring five-year unlimited mileage warranty and an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery pack, along with five years of AA breakdown coverage, which should offer some peace of mind.
